Lord Shiva, a complex and fascinating deity, embodies both destruction and benevolence in Hinduism. His name itself translates to “pure and destroyer,” reflecting his role as the one who tears down to pave the way for new creation. As part of the Trimurti, he maintains balance in the universe.
Dwelling on Mount Kailash, Shiva is an ascetic yogi, an embodiment of knowledge and self-discipline. He is worshipped by many names, including Mahadeva the Great God, and Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. Hindus recognize him by the Shivling, a unique shrine separate from other deities.
Family
In the divine family of Lord Shiva, there are four members – Shiva, His wife Parvati, and two sons – Kartikeya and Ganesha. Kartikeya is the god of war while Ganesha is the god of obstacles. According to Hindu mythology, before marrying Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva had married Sati, the daughter of Daksha. Lord Shiva is often depicted immersed in deep meditation on Mount Kailash. The mount of Lord Shiva is bull Nandi.
Iconography
Certain attributes are common to all pictures and images of Shiva venerated by Hindus which makes him distinct from other deities. His matted hair piled high on the top of His head with a crescent moon tucked to it and the river Ganges flowing out from His hair. A coiled serpent can be seen around His neck or wrist and He is depicted with blue throat. In His left hand, He holds a Trishul, a trident with a drum tied to it. He sits on a tiger skin and is shown with a Kamandal, a water pot, on His right side. He wears the Rudraksha beads and His unclad body is smeared with ash. He has a third eye on His forehead.
Important Festivals
Devotees of Lord Shiva celebrate Maha Shivaratri, the great night of Shiva. It is a Hindu festival which is celebrated every year in the reverence of Lord Shiva on the 13th night or the 14th day of the new moon in the Krishna Paksha of the month of Phalguna as per north Indian calendar and in the month of Magha as per south Indian calendar. However, both calendars observe Maha Shivaratri on the same day. This festival is of utmost importance to the devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva protects His devotees from evil forces and gives them strength to control worldly desires such as lust, greed, and anger. Maha Shivratri is considered especially auspicious for women. Married women pray for the well-being of their husbands, while unmarried women pray for an ideal husband like Shiva.
Mantra
Five is a sacred number for Shiva. One of His most important mantras – Om Namah Shivaya (ॐ नमः शिवाय) has five syllables.
Temples
In India, there are twelve holiest Shiva temples, famously known as Jyotirlinga.